The Marico sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae, which is native to woodlands of the eastern and southern Afrotropics.The bird is typically found in the southeast of the continent of Africa. It is of least concern on the IUCN Red List and has an unknown population size that has yet to be quantified. The Marico sunbird has conservation regions located all over its range, so it is unlikely to go extinct.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in open woodland, thornveld, and savanna, especially along riparian corridors and in semi-arid bush with flowering shrubs and trees. It frequents garden plantings and parks where nectar-bearing ornamentals are abundant. Within its range it is common in acacia-dominated woodland, mopane edges, and mixed broadleaf savanna. It avoids dense closed forest but uses woodland edges and thickets.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Marico sunbird (also known as Mariqua Sunbird) is a nectar specialist that often follows blooming aloes, Erythrina, and other flowering trees. It typically perches to feed rather than hovering for long, conserving energy. Males are strongly territorial around rich nectar sources and can be confused with the Purple-banded Sunbird; the Marico male shows a broader, more conspicuous purple breast band.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs; males defend nectar-rich bushes and trees vigorously. The nest is a suspended, oval structure woven from plant fibers and spider silk, with a side entrance. The female typically undertakes most incubation, while the male helps defend the territory.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a rapid, high-pitched series of twitters and tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp tsip and chwit notes, often given in energetic bursts during territorial displays.
Plumage
Male with glossy metallic green head and throat, a broad iridescent purple breast band, and dark to blackish underparts; upperparts are dark with a slight green gloss. Female is grey-brown above with pale buff to greyish underparts lightly streaked on the breast and flanks. Both sexes have a long, decurved bill typical of sunbirds.
Diet
Primarily nectar from flowering aloes, Erythrina, Leonotis, and other native and ornamental plants. Supplements diet with small insects and spiders, especially when feeding young. Occasionally takes small fruits or sap and will glean arthropods from foliage.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at flowering shrubs and trees in savanna, thornveld, riparian woodland, and suburban gardens. Often perches while probing flowers, but will hover briefly to access deep corollas.
